Posted 07/03/2015 3:10 pm
Whatever keeps the coins away from Oxygen and H2O (even the moisture found in the air) and any other chemical that might react with the surface increases the likelihood of the coin being able to maintain it's original luster and color.
One of the best things you can do if you are storing your coins, including proof sets, in a safe (or any other enclosed space)- is to buy one of the small bags or boxes that "suck up" the moisture in that enclosed space.
I've stored some proof sets for over 40 years without a hint of tone by simply leaving them in their original package of issue and keeping the little dehumidifier packets in the safe.
I also store the older proof sets that came in the kraft envelopes AWAY from those envelopes (if the set has been opened)and further insure their safety by placing them in a Mylar sleeve while maintaining the original cellophane wrappers intact inside.
The older envelopes had enough sulfur content to bleed dioxide into any split in the cellophane, which is why you might see a proof set with only one or two coins toned. Those coins had small holes or splits in the cellophane which allowed that reaction to take place.
One of the best things you can do if you are storing your coins, including proof sets, in a safe (or any other enclosed space)- is to buy one of the small bags or boxes that "suck up" the moisture in that enclosed space.
I've stored some proof sets for over 40 years without a hint of tone by simply leaving them in their original package of issue and keeping the little dehumidifier packets in the safe.
I also store the older proof sets that came in the kraft envelopes AWAY from those envelopes (if the set has been opened)and further insure their safety by placing them in a Mylar sleeve while maintaining the original cellophane wrappers intact inside.
The older envelopes had enough sulfur content to bleed dioxide into any split in the cellophane, which is why you might see a proof set with only one or two coins toned. Those coins had small holes or splits in the cellophane which allowed that reaction to take place.
